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Thursday, January 22, 2009

Robert Duncan and Hubris

Hubris is a term used in modern English to indicate overweening pride, self-confidence, superciliousness, or arrogance, often resulting in fatal retribution. Hubris was most evident in the public and private actions of the powerful and rich. The word was also used to describe actions of those who challenged the gods or their laws, especially in Greek tragedy, resulting in the protagonist's downfall.

While we were all watching the world change Bobby Duncan was busy trying to change the world. Did you know that one may now apply for recognition by the Anglican Church in North America. Here is how the first of several article begins:

The process for applying to be recognized as a diocese, cluster or network of the Anglican Church in North America is now available.

“This is an exciting time for those who have worked and prayed for so many years that we might have a united Anglican home in North America. May God guide all of us as we begin this work,” said Bishop Robert Duncan, archbishop-designate of the Anglican Church in North America.

Mr. Duncan has declared open season on joining a province that does not exist. Or rather, exists in the minds of a few supercilious folks who are most assuredly arrogant. Keep in mind that the official response from the Office of the Archbishop of Canterbury is that "we will let everyone know when the process for application for a new province is received."

The Anglican Church in North America is being born at an extraordinary moment in Anglican history. Pray with me that all of the complexities of this birth will be characterized by grace and charity among us, met with wide recognition and favor among our local and global partners, and be to the greater glory of God, the significant extension of the kingdom of Christ Jesus and all in the mighty power of the Holy Spirit.

Whatever they dream they are, Duncan's group is not Anglican in the normal sense of the word. To be part of the Anglican Communion they must be in communion with the See of Canterbury. I have yet to see any recognition coming from there.

The primates meeting will be interesting. How many of those folks want competition in their own backyards? And how many will refuse to take communion with our Presiding Bishop? IMNSHO, those who don't should not be considered part of the AC. But what do I know? I'm between denominations at the moment.

Did you see Mark's piece on this? It is quite good. Allow me to quote his opening:

Here is the way it works:

You claim to be the best new thing on the block.You claim that is true because powerful people take you seriously.You claim it is true because the media says so.You claim it is true because powerful people in their club talk about you.You claim it is true because your status is being considered by people with status.And one day you announce you are the best new thing.And everyone says, "yes, it must be true."Even though it was just your claim.

Just about sums it up, doesn't it?

Let's see, what do I want to be when I grow up...president? king?...wait...I've got it.

Birds of a Feather

Friday MorningOriginal photography, Susan Frazier

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